Aaron Rodgers’ time with the New York Jets has officially come to an unceremonious end.
After two tumultuous seasons – one completely derailed by injury and the other marked by front-office upheaval – the team has informed the four-time MVP that they are not interested in bringing him back for another year.
Unfortunately, Rodgers’ stint in New York never truly got off the ground.
Just four snaps into his highly anticipated debut in 2023, he suffered a torn Achilles, sidelining him for the entire season.
His attempted return in 2024 was overshadowed by instability within the organization, culminating in the firings of both head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas.
Now, as Rodgers approaches his 42nd birthday, questions about his ability to perform at an elite level are intensifying.
ESPN analyst Booger McFarland believes the former Super Bowl champion should walk away from the game rather than chase one last comeback.
“I think it’s time to retire, man,” McFarland bluntly said SportsCenter.
“If you think about Aaron Rodgers, you have to understand what’s going on with him. When he came back from the Achilles, he couldn’t move anymore. And I get it, he’s a four-time MVP and first-ballot Hall of Famer.
“But when you’re a quarterback and movement is a part of your game, and you can’t move anymore, I think it’s time for Aaron Rodgers to go ahead and retire.”
Despite Booger’s advice, it seems that Rodgers has zero plans to retire. He has been working out and all signs point to him continuing his NFL career.
Rodgers has made it clear he has no interest in joining a rebuilding franchise, meaning his options could be limited.
Most contending teams already have their quarterback situations settled, and at this stage in his career, Rodgers is unlikely to sign on as a mentor for a younger QB.
When Rodgers arrived in New York, the vision was simple: he would elevate a talented but unproven roster into a legitimate Super Bowl contender. (Remember Hard Knocks?)
Instead, injuries and instability left the Jets with little to show for their two-year investment.
Now, Gang Green is pressing the reset button.
A new head coach, general manager, and quarterback will lead the team into 2024, mirroring recent overhauls that worked for teams like the Houston Texans and Washington Commanders.
As Rodgers weighs his future, the reality is stark – opportunities to win now are scarce for the aging quarterback with health concerns.
The Steelers, Raiders, Vikings, Rams, Colts, and Giants have all been mentioned as possible landing spots for the four-time MVP.
Where do you think Rodgers will end up? … Or should he just take Booger’s advice and retire???